Set a Purpose

The earthquake hits. Find out what the family does.

This morning the earth shook and threw us from our beds. We were not hurt, just stunned.

Drawers spilled, dishes crashed, pots and pans clanged as they fell. Ancestral portraits flew off the walls.

PoPo packed up all we could carry—bedding, clothing, food, utensils; Kwan Yin and ancestors, too.

Illustration of inside of a home with items falling—bowls, paintbrushes, picture frames Illustration of PoPo packing items from a dresser into a large box and a basket
In Other Words

  • stunned surprised

  • Ancestral portraits Pictures of family members

  • utensils tools for cooking and eating

Cultural Background

Kwan Yin is a popular Chinese goddess of kindness and forgiveness. Many Chinese families keep a statue of Kwan Yin in their homes to honor her.